We have started a new campaign!
The HummingBirds are shouting from the top of a barrel “please donate to us any sports or educational equipment, supplies or clothing you have!”
A barrel of boots
Project Name: BoB (A Barrel of Boots)
We have had issues in the past when sending donations across the Atlantic, so we contacted a handful of different shipping companies to share our plans and to start something new. We had a few positive responses and have chosen to start this campaign in partnership with Wings International. Wings International is a UK registered shipping and storage company, based in Bristol, who have been operating for well over a decade, primarily shipping to the Caribbean. They are very supporting and keen to help in every and any way they can.
Every BoB needs to take 5 steps
1) Select
We are starting with Cornwall, St James. What really touched us about this particular community is who they want to help, by doing what and what they have done so far. The want they have to get people of all ages active and socialising, with health being a big reason, and their want to help with education really inspired us. It was great to see and hear about what they have done so far, how many people and nearby communities they connect to, and the ambitions they have to help in a few ways.
2) Collect
We need your help. Pre-season is starting. That might mean a new kit for your team, new balls for your club, new boots for you, or you might be ‘hanging your boots up’ completely. We know that a lot of changes tend to happen at this time of year, and we are asking for you to donate all that you can to support us on this mission. Before September 2024, we want to fill at least one Barrel of Boots - BoB.
It is important that whatever is donated is in good condition, full working order and fit to last.
3) Ship
When we have at least one barrel full of donations, we will then look to Wings International to step in and begin their role of this journey. Wings International will collect and ship the barrel(s) to Montego Bay, Jamaica.
There is room on a pallet for 4 barrels, I am desperate for us to send at least two BoB’s at a time.
4) Clear
Once the BoB’s arrive at the port, they will then need to clear customs. History has shown us this can be a very difficult and drawn out part of the process. Fortunately, with this campaign, we have Wings International on our side. They have worked with the Jamaican Embassy and Jamaican Education Board, and are very experienced in dealing with customs and ports in Jamaica. This should help us get things cleared more efficiently than in the past.
5) Deliver
When the BoB’s have been cleared, we will then continue to work with Wings International on the island, to deliver the BoB’s to the community, at a time when most can benefit from what we are giving. As we know from personal experiences, this is often the most rewarding part of what we do.
Wherever you are in the UK, we would still like your help and any donations you can. A successful fundraiser at AFC Whyteleafe in May 2024 generated enough money to buy the barrels and to pay for the postage of some of the larger donations. So, if you are part of a team who no longer need last season’s kit, please donate it to us and we’ll help to pay for delivery!
I believe we can fill a BoB, but we really need your help to do so. Please do what you can, donate what you can, and pass this message on to anyone who you think might be able to help us accomplish this mission.
It is vital that whatever is donated is in good condition, full working order and fit to last.
Thank you
Let’s all play!